DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AGAINST CHILDREN WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES – SOCIO-LEGAL ASPECTS
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AGAINST CHILDREN WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES – SOCIO-LEGAL ASPECTS

Summary/Abstract: This empirical research focuses on analyzing cases of domestic violence against children with developmental disabilities, using a case study from the city of Belgrade. The participants in this study were students from the Primary and Secondary School for Children with Developmental Disabilities in Belgrade. The target group consisted of participants aged between 10 and 21 years, who were identified as having factors that contribute to the vulnerability and marginalization of this group of children and adolescents, in comparison to children and adolescents developing according to normative standards. To achieve the research objectives, methods such as surveys, informal interviews, and content analysis of relevant documents (student records) were applied. The main goal of the study is to identify various forms of violence these children are exposed to, as well as the dominant factors influencing the occurrence of such situations within families. Additionally, the research investigates the correlation between the prevalence of violence and various sociodemographic factors, such as family socioeconomic status, family structure, and the presence of mental health issues in caregivers. The results of this study indicate that children with developmental disabilities who come from socially disadvantaged families with a large number of members are at a significantly higher risk of violence and neglect. The analysis highlights the compounded vulnerability of these children, whose exposure to family violence is often influenced by factors such as poverty, limited access to educational resources, and a lack of adequate caregiving. Furthermore, the study suggests that legal frameworks addressing domestic violence against children with disabilities are often insufficient, with gaps in both preventive measures and intervention protocols. In response to these findings, the study proposes a legal platform based on collaborative efforts between families, social services, governmental bodies, and the judiciary, emphasizing the active involvement of local self-government units in preventive measures. This proposed platform advocates for the development of innovative services that integrate education, psychological support, and legal protection to safeguard children with developmental disabilities from domestic violence. Additionally, the role of educational institutions and community-based support services is stressed, urging for more comprehensive approaches to early identification and intervention in cases of abuse.

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